Mariners demote Montero to Triple-A

The Seattle Mariners are hoping a demotion to Triple-A Tacoma can straighten out struggling catcher Jesus Montero.

The Mariners made the move on Thursday, with Montero putting forth a measly
.208 batting average through 101 at-bats this season.

The 23-year-old and one time highly regarded prospect was looking to build on
a successful first full season in 2012, but hasn't been nearly as productive
so far and at times has struggled to get off the bench.

Montero hit 15 homers and knocked in 62 runs over 135 games last year after
the Mariners acquired him from the New York Yankees, but has produced just
three homers and nine RBI while appearing in only 29 of the Mariners' 47 games
this season.

A corresponding roster move will be made on Friday. The Mariners will likely
call up Jesus Sucre from Tacoma. He will serve as the backup catcher to Kelly
Shoppach.